Answers (10)
2
I teach an all levels boot camp! You have to modify, modify, and modify some more! Focus on form. I always tell my clients...it isn't practice that makes perfect...it is perfect practice that makes perfect. You plan your classes with all people in mind. Offer up different alternatives. In my case we focus on the basic moves in almost every class so eventually people might not have to modify (for example I might have a new member work on learning a good form squat not going to deep, while I have my more advanced clients doing deep squat kicks or squat jumps). I also use the rest based exercise principle in my classes. We go for 2 minutes on most exercise but my clients know that within that two minutes they are to go for as long as they can, rest for just a moment, and go some more. By giving them the option to rest they don't feel like they cant do it! My classes are HARD and yet I have all fitness levels that can squat, lunge, do push ups like no bodies business LOL.
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I avoid labeling things as more advanced or level 1, 2 or 3. Instead I let them know I'll be showing them lots of options during class, pick the one that fits them the best so they can enjoy the workout.
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All classes have to be mulitlevel in order to survive. Everyone has a starting and pushing point.
Our bootcamp is ongoing so the great thing is the "regulars" can really see how far they've come when "new" bootcampers join.We are constantly reminding our bootcampers to "remember when" they started. As trainers and instructors we need to "be on it" at all times. We need to read people fast and be able to quickly make a modification or push a bit harder for that next level.
We can't become robotic in our teaching we must always pay attention and be clear and precise when it comes to amping things up for some and slowing things down for others.
We want our participants to be successful at any level.
Our bootcamp is ongoing so the great thing is the "regulars" can really see how far they've come when "new" bootcampers join.We are constantly reminding our bootcampers to "remember when" they started. As trainers and instructors we need to "be on it" at all times. We need to read people fast and be able to quickly make a modification or push a bit harder for that next level.
We can't become robotic in our teaching we must always pay attention and be clear and precise when it comes to amping things up for some and slowing things down for others.
We want our participants to be successful at any level.
1
I have an additional point to all those already made: I remind people that an exercise class - whatever the format may be - is not a competition sport. It matters little what the person next to them is doing. It is sometimes even helpful to praise people for using the easier option to reinforce the message that this is just as praiseworthy as the person who has perfected the routine
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Hi Elaine,
Successfully teaching to multi-levels (both fitness & skill levels) is the biggest challenge and most important aspect of teaching group exercise. In two words:
Progressions and Options!
Whether I'm teaching a core conditioning class or a choreographed step class it's the same: I start with a base movement that everyone can do, and progress it with optional variations to make it more challenging and/or interesting. Encourage & emphasize the importance of staying with whatever part of the progression challenges them *enough*.
Successfully teaching to multi-levels (both fitness & skill levels) is the biggest challenge and most important aspect of teaching group exercise. In two words:
Progressions and Options!
Whether I'm teaching a core conditioning class or a choreographed step class it's the same: I start with a base movement that everyone can do, and progress it with optional variations to make it more challenging and/or interesting. Encourage & emphasize the importance of staying with whatever part of the progression challenges them *enough*.
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Aside from the above excellent answers, I sometimes throw in circuit style classes. Each participant will work at their own pace, but they need you to stress that they should work out at their own appropriate level. Take this example: I may have everyone cross the floor and do 10 wall push-ups, and then cross to the other side and do 9 wall push-ups, (and on down to 1 push-up). This is a mix of strength and cardio. While my 'spring chickens' will sprint from side to side and do their push-ups on the floor, my 'seasoned vets' will stroll more slowly, and use the wall for push-ups. Those done early are doing squats until the rest catch up. Everybody works at their own level.
Circuits with stations set up around the room are another way to let everyone work at their own pace, rather than a fast paced, choreography laden class that will leave a few behind, never to darken your door again.
Circuits with stations set up around the room are another way to let everyone work at their own pace, rather than a fast paced, choreography laden class that will leave a few behind, never to darken your door again.
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I agree with Jacquelyn Melear's method...makes sense and it works for everyone..from newbie to experienced!
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I think most classes are inherently "multi-level"; think about it, within a group of beginners, there is a range of experience, right? Of course this pattern goes up the chain to the self-described advanced exerciser.
My most common strategy is to have a focus for the class and communicate it to the participants at the outset, i.e., anaerobic training, heavy weight lifting, improving balance, etc. This way, they already have some idea of the demands that will be placed on them (with these I always offer safety cues and reminders to please "work at a level that's appropriate for you". I like to say that there's a sweet spot between comfort and challenge that clients must find).
I always begin with a base move that everybody can do and that done mindfully and properly provides a good workout, as is. Of course, I'll add progression and regression options throughout so people can literally exercise their autonomy and work at a level on which they feel confidently challenged.
I like to mingle in the group during the class; do the exercise beside them, maybe offer a helpful cue for improvement or words of encouragement or praise, when appropriate.
My most common strategy is to have a focus for the class and communicate it to the participants at the outset, i.e., anaerobic training, heavy weight lifting, improving balance, etc. This way, they already have some idea of the demands that will be placed on them (with these I always offer safety cues and reminders to please "work at a level that's appropriate for you". I like to say that there's a sweet spot between comfort and challenge that clients must find).
I always begin with a base move that everybody can do and that done mindfully and properly provides a good workout, as is. Of course, I'll add progression and regression options throughout so people can literally exercise their autonomy and work at a level on which they feel confidently challenged.
I like to mingle in the group during the class; do the exercise beside them, maybe offer a helpful cue for improvement or words of encouragement or praise, when appropriate.
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Karin and Susan,
You two answered this one perfectly in my opinion. I really love the.... praising the ones who stay withing their capabilities.
You two answered this one perfectly in my opinion. I really love the.... praising the ones who stay withing their capabilities.
0
I demonstrate the modifications which I call a "safety blanket" at the beginning of the class during the warmup.
